Policing talks are above politics

The talks between the DUP and Sinn Fein regarding the final devolution of policing and justice powers to the Northern Ireland Executive are of grave concern, considering the way the North's two largest political parties are using one of the biggest remaining political and legal instruments yet to be implemented there to suit their own agenda.

The talks between the DUP and Sinn Fein regarding the final devolution of policing and justice powers to the Northern Ireland Executive are of grave concern, considering the way the North's two largest political parties are using one of the biggest remaining political and legal instruments yet to be implemented there to suit their own agenda.

Both the DUP and Sinn Fein are using the policing and justice discussions to bolster their fortunes in any future elections.

Such is the huge importance and significance of devolving policing and justice that both parties are using Gordon Brown and Brian Cowen for a political deal to safeguard their parties from public and media scrutiny.

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